Grub Guide: Where And What To Eat In Downtown L.A.
One of our favorite parts of L.A. living is the diversity of the neighborhoods scattered across the Southern Cali sprawl. And while we can't get enough of the shopping and art all over Downtown L.A., the truth is that nothing beats the food and drinks amidst the skyscrapers and Staples Center. So, instead of hightailing down the Harbor Freeway and meandering around looking for the tastiest bites, we asked our go-to food guide, Natalie James from Fashion Intel, to dish on her favorite DTLA eats. From sweet treats to strong drinks, she's covered all the bases and passed on her expert tips for your next fab Downtown L.A. feast.
The Lazy Ox Canteen
I like a place that champions itself as a "casual dining spot" but still serves up some major meals like seared beef tongue, braised rabbit leg, and pomme puree with Italian black truffles. The Lazy Ox Canteen reels me in every time with the promise of a savory dining experience. I have gushed over their juicy Lazy Ox burger accompanied by perfect fries and dipping sauce, and have been thrilled after just a few bites of their fried chicken. This is a great place to go if you want to order up a few beers and loosen your belt just a little. Interested in having juices beautifully drip down your chin and possibly on to your shirt? I recommend you pull up a chair at The Lazy Ox Canteen.
The Laxy Ox Canteen, 241 South San Pedro Street (at 2nd Street); 213-626-5299.
Coffee Bar
There are times when you simply need a place where you can drink something tasty and relax with friends; combined with a great space for some people watching and it is a guaranteed good time. There are many delicious cups of coffee being served Downtown, but if you want to feel like you're in the thick of it all, Coffee Bar serves up a great atmosphere on a bustling street. Now that summer is coming to an end, I am looking forward to switching up my usual order of iced Chai to a cup of piping hot Chai and cozying up on one of the patio benches. This is definitely one of the best chill-out spots in Downtown L.A.
Coffee Bar, 600 South Spring Street (at 6th Street); 213-327-1157.
Starry Kitchen
When you work in Downtown, like I did for 6 years, a common question amongst yourself and your coworkers is "where are we going for lunch?" If you are located near Bunker Hill or find yourself in Downtown L.A. before 3pm, may I suggest you swing by Starry Kitchen? Once serving up meals as an underground kitchen in an apartment in North Hollywood, SK decided to go legit and Downtown was lucky to get them. With a rotating menu that you'll never tire of, you can look forward to sitting down to a freshly-prepared meal packed with bursts of flavor. For those who want a lighter meal, I recommend the Thai Cobb salad, which has been on their menu as of late. If you really want to pack a punch, order the protein (pork, chicken, Angus beef, curry tofu) plus one side (I suggest garlic noodles) and an order of the famous tofu balls. Add some Sriracha and I promise your taste buds will thank you.
Starry Kitchen, 350 South Grand Avenue; 213-617-3474.
